Stay healthy in winter
As we get older, changes to our bodies mean that cold weather and winter bugs affect us more than they used to, what we can do to keep healthy.
Our immune system doesn’t function as well as we age, Our immune system helps us fight off germs and infections.
Colds, flu and pneumonia are all more common in winter. Last year over 60% of cases of flu that needed hospital treatment were in people over 65. So it's a good idea to take extra steps to avoid a nasty illness.
The cold puts more pressure on our hearts and circulatory systems. As we get older, our body has to work harder to keep us warm.
If you're exposed to a cold environment for a long time, or in extreme cold for only a short time, your blood pressure rises and your blood thickens. This can increase the risk of a heart attack and stroke.
What you can do
Wrap up well when you go out in the cold
Layering's the best way to keep warm in winter. Don't forget a hat, gloves, thick socks and a scarf.
Make sure your home is warm enough
The ideal room temperature you should be aiming for is about 21 degrees in your living room, and about 18 degrees in your bedroom.
Our bodies lose muscle mass, so don’t keep us as warm
If you find you feel the cold more than you used to, that's totally normal.
From about the age of 55, we lose around 1% of our muscle mass every year. It doesn't sound a lot, but muscle is what keeps us warm.
What you can do
Keep moving
Try not to sit still for more than one hour at a time. Even if just move your arms and legs, it'll help keep you warm.
Eat well
Aim for at least one hot meal every day as well as warm drinks throughout the day.
Read these lovely recipes supplied by Age UK.age-uk-id202697-recipes-for-a-warmer-winter.pdf
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